The developer of the first home-grown jet, the ARJ-21, Sunday announced US-based Parker Hannifin Corp as the provider of the plane's fuel, hydraulic and flight control and actuation systems.

Tang Xiaoping, general manager of the China Aviation Industry Corp I Commercial Aircraft Co Ltd (ACAC), announced the co-operation at a press conference in Beijing.

Parker President and CEO Don Washkeicz said: "We are honoured to have been chosen among many excellent companies that were part of this competitive process, and we are absolutely committed to further expanding our investment and employment in China to support this programme as a long-term partner."

With ACAC's projected worldwide market potential for 500 aircraft over the next 20 years, the contracts are expected to yield as much as US$275 million for Parker.

Meanwhile, it will create additional opportunities to apply its systems expertise by providing follow-up maintenance, repairs and overhaul services.

According to plans, the new plane will be built to two different specifications, seating 78 or 85 passengers and being able to cover 2,225 kilometres or 3,700 kilometres respectively. It will be put into service for feeder flights in 2007.

Apart from the partnership with Parker Hannifin, the ARJ-21 will be equipped with General Electric engines, and Liebherr air conditioning and landing gear.

To support the ARJ-21, Parker Aerospace President Bob Barker said the company will establish new aerospace facilities in China, employing local engineers and professionals.

He said the company will also rely on Chinese suppliers for a range of goods and services.

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